Council was considering a report to proceed with the removal of the trees because they posed a risk to the community.

Margaret Harris from Friends of Barraba Trees told the council the community was shocked by the decision to revisit the removal.

"There has been a lack of consultation and the community feel very left out and that is really a shame."

While Helen Rixon implored the Councillors to protect the town's green assets.

"In this all too regular brown landscape these towers of green provide an invaluable service to our community."

However there was a voice in support of the trees removal, local Danny Ballard presented the councillors with 90 letters from the community worried about the impact the trees are having on heritage buildings.

In the end the Councillors chose to support a motion proposed by Councillor Helen Tickle, rather than the recommendation contained in a report.

She instead won support to monitor and manage the trees and remove any identified as dangerous.

Mrs Harris has welcomed the move.

"I am pleased the Council has seen the overwhelming excitement and fervour we have got to work with Council on the trees, and I am glad they have recognised the work we have done."